Student Accounts Collections & Recovery Specialist

Commonwealth of VA Careers; Fairfax (VA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Commonwealth of VA Careers in Fairfax, VA is seeking a Collections Specialist to reduce defaulted student accounts by early identification and intervention. You will contact students to explain collection procedures and coordinate with agencies, loan services, and staff.

The role supports reconciliations and daily operations within the Student Accounts Office. The position requires a high school diploma and Accounts Receivable experience, with strong communication and problem-solving skills.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience working in Accounts Receivable.
• Knowledge of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), FERPA, and Accounts Receivable applications.
• Demonstrated interpersonal and communication skills.
• Analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work with Microsoft Word, Excel, and email systems.
• Ability to manage multiple high-priority responsibilities in a time-pressured environment.

Responsibilities

• Performs collection efforts via telephone and email focusing on at-risk accounts before formal collection.
• Assists students with past-due accounts, explains collection procedures, and counsels on steps to resolve accounts.
• Prepares documentation for submission to third-party collection agencies and the Office of the Attorney General - Division of Debt.
• Supports participation in the Commonwealth of Virginia Debt Set-Off Program with the Department of Taxation.
• Acts as a central point of communication for collection agencies, loan servicers, and internal staff on collections matters.
• Assists other Student Accounts Office staff with cash receipt processing, account maintenance, form intake and processing, report review and processing, and related tasks.

Skills

Accounts Receivable experience

Interpersonal skills

Written and verbal communication

Analytical and problem-solving

Microsoft Word/Excel

Time management

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Bachelor’s degree (preferred)

Tools

Microsoft Word

Excel

Email systems

Job description

Commonwealth of VA Careers in Fairfax, VA is seeking a Collections Specialist to reduce defaulted student accounts by early identification and intervention. You will contact students to explain collection procedures and coordinate with agencies, loan services, and staff.

The role supports reconciliations and daily operations within the Student Accounts Office. The position requires a high school diploma and Accounts Receivable experience, with strong communication and problem-solving skills.